5 Athletes to Watch at Rio Olympics

Posted on August 11, 2016

At almost a week in, the Rio Olympics are hurtling with momentum through swimming, volleyball, gymnastics and its all-inclusive variety of sports. With no shortage of excitement, tears, and drama, the Rio Olympics is the sports world of a real life soap opera – in the most thrilling of ways. Sportsmanship, physical ability, and mental capacity are challenged, analyzed and revered around the world. Here are just a few of the American Athletes we’re excited to watch!

Lilly King, Women’s Swimming:

Olympic newcomer, Lilly King has already taken gold at this Olympics in a finger wagging fashion, and we love it. As a freshman at Indiana University, she’s also earned College Swimming Coaches Association of America Swimmer of the Year, as well as IU’s Athlete of the year.

Photo from NBC.com

Sydney McLaughlin, Track & Field:

Since turning 17 after trials, Sydney is the youngest woman to qualify for the Track & Field team since 1972. After placing 3rd in the 400 meter hurdles, she’s ready to go from junior champion to competing on a global scale.

Photo From NYmag.com

Joe Maloy, Men’s Triathlon:

Joe is a Wildwood, New Jersey hometown hero, Boston College alumni, and an all around great person. Earlier this year, Joe told us what it meant to live a liquid life, and left no doubt in our minds that he’d be heading to Rio representing the USA. His work ethic, determination, and megawatt smile, remind us all what passion and true sportsmanship is all about.

Credit: Wagner Araujo Taken in Rio

Gwen Jorgensen, Women’s Triathlon:

Joe’s teammate, Gwen Jorgensen is the favorite to win the triathlon at this year’s Rio Olympics. After leaving her desk job as an accountant, Gwen went on to qualify for the 2012 London Olympics, and was named USA Triathlon’s 2013 and 2014 Olympic/ITU Female Athlete of the Year.

Photo From GwenJorgensen.com

Simone Biles, Gymnast:

This 19 year old phenom is a woman to remember. She has 10 golds, a world record, and an insane aerial move aptly named after her, riding on her resume. She has joined the top of the list of names for best gymnasts…ever. She’s walking flipping into the first place seed in multiple events and already has added a gold to her collection.